Our Strategy
ARB Holdings is a diversified investment and property holding company focused on building long-term value through a portfolio of trading and distribution businesses.
Our investments are concentrated in sectors where we have deep industry understanding and operational insight, enabling us to support sustainable growth, strengthen performance and maintain long-term relevance in evolving markets.
Years of Experience
Successful Businesses
Where We Invest
ARB Holdings focuses its investments in sectors that form the backbone of economic activity, industries where reliable infrastructure, technical capability and consistent supply are essential.
Within these sectors, we prioritise businesses that:
- Operate in established, demand-driven markets
- Provide essential products or services
- Demonstrate strong operational foundations
- Offer opportunities for sustainable growth and scale
By focusing on sectors we understand deeply, we are able to support each business with insight, discipline and long-term commitment.
Our portfolio is
concentrated across
four core areas:
Infrastructure Lighting ICT &
Technology Education &
Skills Development
How We Create Value
ARB Holdings takes an active approach to building value across its portfolio. We work closely with each business to strengthen performance, unlock growth opportunities and ensure long-term resilience.
Together, these principles enable ARB Holdings to build resilient businesses that not only perform today but are positioned for the opportunities of tomorrow.
We create value through:
Strategic
Oversight
Clear direction and active oversight of every business in the Group.
Operational
Support
Sharing expertise, improving efficiencies and strengthening systems to support scalable growth.
Capital
Allocation
Disciplined investment in the businesses and opportunities with the strongest long-term returns.
Governance
& Risk
Strong governance and risk management that protect the Group and its stakeholders.
People
& Skills
Development
Investing in people and skills so each business can grow with confidence.
The ARB Holdings Journey
ARB Holdings has evolved from its roots in the electrical sector into a diversified investment group. While the portfolio has expanded, the core philosophy remains unchanged, invest in strong businesses, support them with discipline and enable long-term growth.
ARB was founded by Alan Ronald Burke in Richards Bay, operating from a single shipping container.
National Presence
ARB expanded into key markets across South Africa and welcomed Batsomi Power as a strategic empowerment partner.
the JSE
ARB Holdings listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, marking a significant milestone in its growth.
Foundations
Strategic acquisitions, the formation of CED and expanded distribution capabilities strengthened the Group’s national offering.
Infrastructure
The Group expanded through Craigcor Distribution, lighting investments and a major new distribution centre in Johannesburg.
Energy Solutions
ARB introduced its full solar product range and expanded into cable management solutions.
Ownership Chapter
ARB Holdings delisted from the JSE following investment by Masimong and Sabvest.
New investments and partnerships continue to grow the Group across electrical, lighting, ICT and education.
Board of Directors
ARB Holdings’ Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and governance, ensuring the long-term sustainability, performance and integrity of the Group.
The Board comprises a balance of executive and non-executive directors with deep expertise across electrical infrastructure, finance, investment and industry operations. This combination of experience enables independent judgement while supporting informed decision-making and long-term value creation.
Blayne Burke
Group Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director
William “Billy” Neasham
Non-Executive Director
Billy Neasham brings extensive financial expertise and long-standing involvement with the Group.
A Chartered Accountant, he has played a key role in instilling financial discipline and previously served as CEO, contributing significantly to ARB’s operational strength.
